This is Severe Weather Awareness Week

The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and the National Weather Service (NWS) have joined together to promote Severe Weather Awareness Week this week, March 24-28.

“Iowa is familiar with extreme weather and flooding. Last year, we faced some of the worst weather in recent state history,” said HSEM Director John Benson. “It’s important that Iowans take the time now to prepare themselves and their families so they know what to do if severe weather is headed their way.”

ISU Extension and Outreach separately released information last week about managing the fear and anxiety living through severe weather may invoke.

A severe thunderstorm warning or even a tornado watch can serve as a trigger that sets off memories of a traumatic experience, said David Brown, behavioral health specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

“It is especially important to remember that overwhelming feelings, feeling unsafe or even feeling panicked are quite common reactions to reminders of a traumatic event. Just knowing this information can help us prepare and ease such feelings. Practicing deep breathing exercises and talking to others can also be helpful,” said Brown.

Tammy Jacobs, Iowa Concern Hotline manager, suggested the following steps recommended by the American Psychological Association: Ask for support from family and friends who will listen and empathize with your situation. Engage in healthy behavior such as eating well-balanced meals and getting a good night’s sleep. Maintain or reestablish routines, such as eating meals at regular times or following a regular exercise program. Pursue a hobby, take time to walk or read an enjoyable book. Avoid making major life decisions, if still coping with the aftereffects of a natural disaster.

“If you notice consistent feelings of distress or find it challenging to make it through your daily activities and responsibilities, make sure to contact your family physician or connect with a local mental health provider to help you through this time,” said Jacobs.

Iowans are encouraged to take the following steps to be better prepared as severe weather season approaches, the National Weather Service said:

• Be aware of weather hazards by signing up for emergency notifications through Alert Iowa (alert.iowa.gov), enabling WEA alerts on your mobile phone, and having a weather radio.

• Create or check your emergency kit to make sure you have everything you need in case you have to shelter in place or evacuate.

• Practice what you would do in the event of severe weather and how you would take shelter or how you would evacuate.

• Check your insurance coverage on your home and auto and know what is and what is not covered.

• Take an inventory on paper or by picture of your home and keep it in your go bag or virtually in case you have to report damages.

Learn more about how to be better prepared at ready.iowa.gov.

During Severe Weather Awareness Week, a different subject is being highlighted each day:

Monday – Lightning Safety

Tuesday – Tornado Safety

Wednesday – Preparedness

Thursday – Hail and Wind Safety

Friday – Flood Safety

The annual statewide tornado drill was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, March 26, beginning at 10 a.m. Additional information about the tornado drill can be found on local NWS websites.